[CA/GK] Styrene Gas

Styrene Gas leaked from LG Polymers Plant in Vishakhapatnam. The tragedy claimed eight lives. This gas plant was owned by South Korean electronics giant LG, located at RRV Puram near Gopalapatnam, about 15 kms from the coast city of Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh).

·       Styrene is a chemical compound identified as neuro-toxins.

·       Styrene is also known as Vinyl Benzene, Ethyl Benzene and Phenyl Benzene.

·       Styrene Gas is colourless and odourless. The gas spreads in air very quickly.

Application / Uses of Styrene Gas:

·       Styrene gas is generally used in the making fan cupa, fan blades and other cutlery.

·       Styrene gas is also used in making containers where cosmetic products are stored.

Health Impacts of Styrene gas:

·       The Styrene gas affects respiratory system. It causes chest congestion, gasping, air hunger and wheezing.

·       It slowly paralyses the lung muscles causing complete respiratory paralysis.

·       This leads to death due to oxygen deprivation.

·       Death occurs within 10 minutes of continuous exposure to concentrate Styrene gas.